LEADERSHIP MISSIONS
Israel 2007
Events in the Middle East have been influencing U.S. foreign policy beginning with the seizure of American commerce ships by the Barbary pirates in 1784. Today the region is dominated by the topics of nuclear proliferation and terrorism. In order to gain a first-hand understanding of this part of the world, the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Prescott, in conjunction with the America Israel Friendship League (AIFL), sponsored an educational mission to Israel in Octiber 2007 for community leaders of the Greater Prescott area.
Until now, this type of Leadership Mission had been reserved exclusively for groups such as the National Association of Attorneys General, the National Council of Churches, national journalists, and prominent Middle East scholars. As a pilot program for the America Israel Friendship League, Greater Prescott became the first small community in the United States to have its community leaders experience this dynamic, in-depth program that explores the importance of Israel’s democracy in the Middle East. Founded in 1971 by a distinguished group of American leaders, including Vice President Hubert Humphrey, and Senators ‘Scoop’ Jackson and Nelson Rockefeller, the America Israel Friendship League’s missions emphasize Israel’s democracy, its vibrant culture, and the tiny nation’s significant contributions to the world of science, technology, medicine, environmental protection, and the arts.
Local leaders who traveled on this historic Mission were: Mayor Rowle Simmons, City of Prescott; Dr. James F. Horton, president, Yavapai College; Shelia Polk, Yavapai County Attorney; Pastor Dan Storvick, Senior Pastor, American Lutheran Church; Pastor Lee Wiggins, Lead Pastor, Heights Church; Kathleen Murphy, CEO, Yavapai Big Brothers, Big Sisters; and attorney, Ellen Simon. Rounding out the group were business leaders, Bill and Ron Fain, Fain Signature Group; Mike Fann, Fann Construction; Steve Rutherford, Rutherford Investments; and Tracey Horn of Helken & Horn.
In addition to visiting the important Holy sites of Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee, the Temple Mount, and ‘Via Dolorosa’, the delegates toured the leading universities, and the major museums of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. To understand the political importance of the region, mission delegates met with government officials, recognized scholars in Middle East affairs, and experts in terrorism. Other highlights of the trip included interaction with prior members of the Knesset, Israel’s legislative governing body, a visit to the Israeli Supreme Court, and an evening with Avi Armoni, past deputy mayor of Jerusalem under Teddy Kollek. The nine-day trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity in which the delegates gained valuable information about Israel.
